Originally Posted by
Blue Order
I just saw a blue Sprint or Gran Sprint frameset (couldn't tell because of the decal condition-- it could have been "Gran Sprint," but all that I could see on the decal was "Sprint") today at a used cycle shop. I didn't get too excited because it wasn't Reynolds 531, but your post has got me thinking about it again. I'd like a bike that I can ride around as a commuter in the city, especially while I build up my other bikes, but still be a nice ride for when my other bikes are completed. A solid, nice-riding city bike. Plus it's nice to occasionally have a bike for use that's less attractive to thieves. I'm still tempted to find a 531 Gitane, but I wonder...
How did you Gran Sprint compare to higher end bikes you've ridden?
I've got an 84 Sprint with Vitus 788 tubing and it weighs about the same as my 1997 Bianchi between 22-23 lbs. The bike is very responsive and fun to ride - over 50% of my training has been on this bike. For $150 in the LBS last year I think it was a fantastic deal since they'd already gone through the bike.
By the 80's some of the Gitanes were being made with Vitus 172, Vitus 788 and Super Vitus 983. Many by '84 had gone to English thread bottom bracket. I'd love an early to mid-70's Reynold 531 Gitane - the ride is supposed to be fantastic.
Paint has always been an issue with the French bikes. The aluminum foil decals in the 70's were also notorious in coming off but reproductions can be bought from what I've hear.